When I started knitting, I didn't know that Wisconsin had such a rich and valuable knitting history. A lot of that comes from one Elizabeth Zimmermann. She has often been called a knitting genius, with good reason. Her designs are still startling and unique, and she "unvented" many new techniques, such as the i-cord (idiot cord). She was also funny, wry, and encouraging, especially encouraging knitters to be thinking knitters and not blind followers with patterns.

Baby Surprise Jacket, a very fun pattern. Knitting this is an exercise in trust that's been amazing knitters for years!

Her daughter and grandson now continue the business she started: Schoolhouse Press. They publish valuable knitting books to keep unique techniques accessible, sell gorgeous yarns, and continue to design and publish patterns. My knitting dream some day is to go to one of their summer knitting workshops. ahhh, maybe when the kids are grown!

There are also knitting connections here in Door County! I've used homegrown yarn from Nora Ahlen's Homestead Sheep and Fiber Products. Not only does she spin and dye her yarn, she also raises the sheep and trains (and competes with) the dogs who herd the sheep, along with her husband Jim. The entire extent of my knowledge on that subject comes from the movie Babe, but I still greatly appreciate her talent and skill! She does not have a website, but enjoys when people call and come to visit her for yarn. I got to meet the sheep that donated the wool that I bought. That was pretty darn cool.

Nora's sport weight hand dyed wool (Romney Wensleydale blend)

There's a Door County Shepherds Market in May that I've attended the last two years, and has been a wonderful source of yarn and lovely finished objects.

There are even patterns for sale that celebrate Door County! Sister Bay, Ellison Bay, and Gill's Rock are all names of gorgeous shawls designed by Paula Emons-Fuessle from Washington, Illinois, who enjoys visiting Door County. I listen to Paula on Knitting Pipeline, her audio podcast, which celebrates knitting, nature, and music. I really need to make a Sister Bay one of these days!

So, I feel like I am in the right place and the right time to knit, create, and connect with the wonderful knitters of Wisconsin! Did I miss any more connections that you know about? Feel free to share in the comments.

A Little About The Goddess Door —

My name is Jennifer Gaddes, and I live in lovely Door County, Wisconsin. I create hand knitted items made of amazing fibers in scrumptious colors. I opened my Etsy store to share my knitting, and started this website to bring together a bit about my life and my creations. Your feedback and comments are welcome, as are requests for custom orders.